Easy Endive Tart

Kitchen Spotlight Nibbles and bites when hunger strikes.

A vegetarian version of a classic tart that blends golden-brown endives with goat cheese for a modern take on French cuisine.
alicia in the kitchen
Recipe by Alicia
Fresh from the kitchen: Sat, 08 Mar 2025 22:18:00 GMT
A spiral design of caramelized onion tart served on a plate. Save for Later
A spiral design of caramelized onion tart served on a plate. | Tastyhush.com

The endive and goat cheese tatin tart has become my signature dish for dinner parties. It showcases how simple ingredients can transform into something magical when combined thoughtfully. The aroma of melting goat cheese over caramelized endives creates an irresistible combination that never fails to impress. This recipe has been refined over years of testing in my kitchen.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

This tart holds a special place in my recipe collection. The magic lies in how the endives become tender and almost candied during cooking. The goat cheese adds a subtle tangy richness that complements them beautifully. Guests are consistently amazed by how well these ingredients work together.

Essential Ingredients

The key components for this elegant tart include 5 firm, fresh endives and 2 aged Chavignol goat cheese rounds. You'll need 50g butter for cooking and greasing the pan, plus a pinch of herbes de Provence for aromatics. Store-bought puff pastry makes assembly straightforward. A spoonful of sugar, salt, and pepper complete the essential ingredients.

Cooking Method

Begin by browning the endives in butter while preheating the oven to 200°C. Prepare the baking pan with melted butter and a light sugar coating. Arrange the endives in a circular pattern, creating an appealing visual presentation. Tuck pieces of goat cheese between the endives and sprinkle with herbes de Provence. Gently cover with puff pastry. After 20 minutes of baking comes the dramatic moment of flipping the tart.

Une tarte aux oignons caramélisés, joliment présentée en couches ondulées, garnie de thym sur une assiette blanche. Save for Later
Une tarte aux oignons caramélisés, joliment présentée en couches ondulées, garnie de thym sur une assiette blanche. | Tastyhush.com

Chef's Tips

A drizzle of honey during the endive cooking process adds an irresistible caramelized sweetness. Thoroughly draining the endives before assembly is crucial - this small detail ensures the pastry stays perfectly crisp.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

→ How do you know if the endives are fully cooked?
The endives should feel soft and have a light golden color. You can test them by gently poking with a knife tip; it should slide in easily.
→ Can I prepare this tart ahead of time?
You can precook the endives earlier, but assemble and bake the tart fresh so the pastry stays crispy.
→ What kind of pan should I use?
A 24-26 cm round cake pan works best. Make sure it’s non-stick and safe for high heat.
→ Is there a substitute for goat cheese?
Absolutely! Try blue cheese or brie as a replacement. Just pick a cheese that melts well when cooked.
→ How can I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain the endives thoroughly before adding them, and don’t overload with butter. Press the pastry firmly against the veggies.

Caramelized Endive Tart

A savory twist on a tart, combining the sweet flavor of caramelized endives and the creaminess of goat cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry.

Prep Time
15 mins
Time at the Stove
45 mins
Total Time
60 mins
Recipe by: Alicia

Type of Dish: Appetizers

Skill Level: Some Experience Needed

Style of Cooking: French

Makes: 6 Feeds (1 tart)

Good for: Vegetarian

Shopping List

Item 01 2 Chavignol cheeses or a goat cheese log.
Item 02 50 grams of butter.
Item 03 5 Belgian endives.
Item 04 A teaspoon of Provence herbs.
Item 05 A pack of puff pastry.
Item 06 Pepper.
Item 07 Salt.
Item 08 One tablespoon of sugar.

Let's Cook

Step 01

Slice the endives into quarters, then slowly cook them in 25 grams of butter on low heat for about 25 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Step 02

Melt the remaining butter and pour it into a round cake pan, then sprinkle sugar on top. Heat the oven to 200°C.

Step 03

Arrange the endives into a rosette shape inside the pan. Layer the goat cheese slices on top, add half the Provence herbs, sprinkle on some salt, and finish with pepper.

Step 04

Cover everything with the puff pastry, tucking the edges down into the pan around the endives.

Step 05

Bake for 20 minutes or until the pastry turns golden and crispy.

Step 06

Flip the tart onto a plate and sprinkle it with the rest of the Provence herbs.

Cook's Tips

  1. Best served piping hot so the cheese stays melty and gooey.
  2. Pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad.

Kitchen Gear Needed

  • Round cake pan.
  • Frying pan.
  • Oven.

Watch Out For

Your safety matters - check these important notes about ingredients
  • Dairy products.
  • Gluten.

Good to Know (Per Serving)

Numbers are approximate - your results may vary based on specific ingredients used
  • Calories per Serving: 320
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Carbs: 25 g
  • Protein: 8 g